Otitis Externa

Definition

Otitis externa is an inflammation and/or infection of the ear canal. The ear canal is the tube leading from the outer ear to the eardrum. Because it is often found in swimmers, particularly in warm, humid climates, it is often referred to as
swimmer’s ear.

People with weak immune systems or who have a chronic illness, such as diabetes or
HIV, may get an aggressive form called malignant otitis externa. Malignant otitis externa results in infection of the cartilage and bone around the ear, as well as between the ear and the brain (the skull base). The condition can be severe and difficult to treat, causing nerve
paralysis.

Symptoms

Otitis externa may cause:

Redness and/or itching inside the ear canal

Pain in the ear, sometimes severe, that may worsen when chewing or talking, and with pulling on the ear

Hearing loss or a plugged-up or pressure sensation of the ear

Drainage from the ear

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a visual exam of the ear, including the ear canal and inner ear, using a lighted device called an otoscope. If malignant otitis externa is suspected, a
CT scan
may be necessary.

Treatment

This condition can easily be treated, but can become serious and life-threatening in some people, if left untreated. This can be very serious particularly in
people with diabetes, where the infection can spread and cause malignant otitis externa.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options may include:

Medications

If you have an infection, medication will depend on the cause of the infection. Other medications will help reduce other symptoms, such as pain and inflammation. Your doctor may recommend:

Oral antibiotics to treat severe infections or cellulitis of the ear canal

Corticosteroid ear drops to reduce inflammation (this may be combined with an antibiotic ear drop)

Intravenous antibiotics for malignant otitis externa

If the ear canal is very swollen, it may not allow the ear drops to get in. A small sponge, called a wick, may be inserted in the ear canal to absorb the drops. It is usually removed after 24-48 hours.

Drainage

If medications or ear wash do not work, your doctor may need to remove any drainage or pus from the ear canal. However, this is rarely needed.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.